What Is The Prognosis For Biliary Pancreatitis?

Biliary pancreatitis generally has a favorable prognosis, especially when treated promptly. In most cases, acute pancreatitis can be fully resolved. However, if the underlying biliary issue—such as gallstones—is not addressed, patients may experience recurrent episodes of acute biliary pancreatitis. These repeated inflammations can gradually damage the pancreas, leading to fibrosis and atrophy, which may ultimately result in chronic pancreatitis.

Chronic pancreatitis is irreversible and can lead to long-term complications. Patients often suffer from symptoms such as persistent upper abdominal pain after eating, diarrhea, and unintended weight loss due to impaired pancreatic function. These issues arise because the damaged pancreas can no longer produce sufficient digestive enzymes.

It is strongly recommended that patients receive treatment for gallstones after recovering from an acute episode. A common and effective intervention is cholecystectomy—the surgical removal of the gallbladder. This procedure helps eliminate the source of gallstone formation and significantly reduces the risk of future attacks.

Even after gallbladder removal, some individuals may still develop stones within the bile duct. In such cases, long-term medical management may be necessary. Doctors often prescribe medications like ursodeoxycholic acid to help regulate bile production and reduce the likelihood of stone recurrence. Regular monitoring and follow-up care are essential to ensure optimal outcomes and prevent further complications.